Washington, DC shines with can’t-miss events, new exhibits and praiseworthy performances throughout the upcoming year.
Every year, Washington, DC is on a short list of essential travel destinations. In years past, the nation's capital has landed on Condé Nast Traveler's "The Best Places to Go in the U.S.," the New York Times' top places to go around the world and TripAdvisor's top destinations in the U.S. This year is a big one thanks to major events like America's 250th birthday, the reopening of the National Geographic Museum of Exploration and much more. We’ve highlighted a complete list of why DC will thrive in 2026, so whenever you’re ready, book your stay with these great deals at DC hotels.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2025
DC250 – Throughout 2026
Celebrate the United States Semiquincentennial with special events at museums, attractions, restaurants and hotels. In the nation's capital, you can engage with American history like nowhere else. Plan your trip now and enjoy an array of experiences throughout the year in honor of America's 250th birthday bash.
Metropolitan Washington Restaurant Week – Jan. 2026 TBD
Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington hosts two annual celebrations of DC’s eclectic dining scene: one in January and a summer edition in August. For both seasonal editions, Restaurant Week offers diners pre-fixe menus for lunch/brunch ($25/$35) and dinner ($40/$55/$65).
Washington Auto Show – Jan. 23 – Feb. 1, 2026
The world-class event displays engineering prowess and innovation along with more than 600 new models from 30+ car manufacturers inside the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Interactive displays and on-site activations add to the fascination of this motor vehicle showcase.
Awesome Con – March 13-15, 2026
More than 70,000 fans can see their favorite stars from comics, films, TV, toys and games throughout Awesome Con, a three-day festival that is Washington, DC’s own Comic Con. Expect plenty of costumed attendees and an array of activities to enjoy during one of the city’s most vibrant annual events.
1776 at Ford's Theatre – March 13 – May 16, 2026
The story of the signing of the Declaration of Independence is transformed into a vibrant musical as the country’s beginnings are brought to blazing life inside the historic Ford's Theatre.
The Crucible at The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts – March 19-29, 2026
The Kennedy Center stages Robert Ward’s Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning opera based on Arthur Miller’s play. The spellbinding tale drops audiences into the heart of the Salem witch trials.
National Cherry Blossom Festival – March 20 – April 12, 2026
DC celebrates the blooming of cherry trees with a month-long festival that commemorates the 1912 gift from Mayor Yukio Ozaki of Tokyo to the city. Peak bloom, which is defined as when 70% of the Yoshino cherry trees at the Tidal Basin have fully opened, is predicted to occur between March 28-31 and the best time to view the blossoms lasts for about a week after peak bloom (and even a few days longer in ideal conditions). Check out popular festival events in the lead-up to the celebration, in addition to our guide to the celebration, how to get the most popular blossom spots and the best places to snap photos.
Sasha Velour's Travesty at Woolly Mammoth Theatre – March 24 – April 12, 2026
The RuPaul’s Drag Race winner stages a multi-media extravaganza on queer history and resistance featuring lip syncing, video art and costume changes at Woolly Mammoth Theatre.
2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament: East Regional – March 27-29, 2026
Capital One Arena plays host to March Madness. Expect edge-of-the-seat action as some of the best NCAA basketball teams in the nation battle to keep their season alive in the single-elimination tournament that captures the country's attention each spring.
Washington Nationals Baseball Home Opener on April 3, 2026
The Washington Nationals, who have four National League East titles, five postseason appearances and a World Series championship since coming to DC in 2005, are one of the city's main attractions throughout the spring and summer. Head to Nationals Park to experience MLB action with an exciting schedule, plenty of home runs and, of course, Racing Presidents. The Nats, as they are lovingly called by locals, celebrate their 20th anniversary in the nation's capital with a year filled with special events.
The Wiz at National Theatre – April 7-12, 2026
Dorothy and crew groove down the Yellow Brick Road in this soulful twist on a classic. The National Theatre transforms into a magical world for one of the most highly anticipated productions of the year, based on the classic play and film of the same name.
Passport DC – May 1-31, 2026
A month of programming across the city focuses on showcasing DC’s international culture. The Around the World Embassy Tour and the European Union Open House are annual highlights, usually held on the first two Saturdays of the month. Most events and tours can be enjoyed entirely free of charge.
The Motion at Arena Stage – May 6 – June 14, 2026
A fierce debate among four scholars becomes a journey through belief, memory and identity in a new play at the legendary Arena Stage.
Pippin at Signature Theatre – May 12 – July 26, 2026
Located in Arlington, Va., Signature Theatre regularly stages modern rei-imaginings of classic productions. Next May, the company takes on Pippin. The coming-of-age tale will be brought to vivid life with wit, wonder and unforgettable music.
Othello at Harman Hall – May 19 – June 21, 2026
Shakespeare’s Earth-shaking tale of deceit, betrayal and paranoia is vividly staged by Simon Godwin with The Wire’s Wendell Pierce in the titular role. Shakespeare Theatre Company's Harman Hall serves as the venue.
Project GLOW – May 30-31, 2026
The two-day music and dance festival returns with electronic beats, food and art on the RFK Festival Grounds.
Couple walking with child during Capital Pride Parade - LGBTQ Summer Events in Washington, DC
Capital Pride – June 8-14, 2026
The annual celebration of love, diversity and unity features major festivities including a parade, street festival and concert.
CrazySexyCool: The TLC Musical at Arena Stage – June 12 – Aug. 9, 2026
Creep your way to one of the coolest venues in DC for a musical based on the fascinating story behind one of the most successful female pop groups ever. Arena Stage celebrates its 75th anniversary in 2026.
Vans Warped Tour
Vans Warped Tour – June 13-14, 2026
The legendary music festival returns with punk, rock and alternative favorites. Numerous ticket options are available. Warped Tour also features an array of experiences, from extreme sports to a record label row and much more.
Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle – June 27-28, 2026
Everyone’s favorite barbecue-flavored event has been held in DC for more than 30 years. Pitmasters from all 50 states, local restaurants and live music shut down Pennsylvania Avenue between 3rd and 7th streets NW for a lively, two-day street party. Cooking demos and free tastings make for a savory (and filling) experience.
Smithsonian Festival – July 4, 2026
Details will be announced for this celebration slated for America's 250th birthday.
Mrs. Doubtfire at the Kennedy Center – July 14 – Aug. 2, 2026
The beloved film starring Robin Williams and Sally Field explodes into life in a heartfelt musical comedy for all ages. The Kennedy Center is likely to be packed for this hilarious tale of a father who goes to extreme lengths to keep his family together.
Mubadala Citi DC Open – July 25 – Aug. 2, 2026
The District’s signature professional tennis tournament will return to Rock Creek Park Tennis Center for its 55th edition in 2024. Top-tier talent from all over the world will compete for a prestigious trophy, leading to back-and-forth action that you do not want to miss.
Otakon – July 31 – Aug. 2, 2026
Annually held at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Otakon just might be the dedicated event space’s liveliest function all year long. The family-friendly convention is run by and dedicated to fans of Asian media, entertainment and pop culture, including anime, manga, music, movies and video games. The festivities range from cosplay contests, skits and live music to panel discussions with comic book (super)heroes, for-sale artworks and more.
National Geographic Museum of Exploration – Summer 2026
The highly anticipated and totally reimagined National Geographic Museum of Exploration will invite visitors to embark on thrilling expeditions and immerse guests in the excitement of exploration and discovery. Expect cutting-edge technology that uncovers wildlife, communities and cultures from all over the world as well as an innovative 400-seat theater and a new outdoor courtyard. Visit the museum's website for more details of what to expect.
DC JazzFest – Sept. 2-6
The ultimate American art form comes to DC stages with leading artists from all over the world during this annual festival. Performances, which take place across the city, are both free and ticketed.
Walkingtown DC – Late Sept. 2026 TBD
Events DC showcases the incredible walkability of the nation’s capital during Walkingtown DC, a free, week-long public tour program. In total, dozens of guided walking tours are held throughout the District, including neighborhood showcases, themed excursions, historical journeys and many more. Historians, licensed tour guides, community leaders and business owners, among others, host these adventures that will take you to both well-known and hidden gems across DC.
Downtown Holiday Market – Late Nov. 2026 TBD
DC’s free-to-frequent downtown bazaar is centrally located in front of the Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery. The beloved market stretches across two blocks of F Street between 7th and 9th streets. Scope out eclectic wares from dozens of pop-up tents with seasonally flavored music performed live in the background. Locally roasted coffee and crafted-before-your-eyes mini-doughnuts inspire a cold-weather appetite, creating a holiday atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else in the city.
National Menorah Lighting – Dec. 2026 TBD
Chanukah kicks off with this lighting ceremony of the world’s largest menorah on the White House Ellipse, which greets all with latkes, doughnuts, menorah kits and dreidels. Music from the United States Navy Band will add a soundtrack to the scene. As is the custom, a new candle is illuminated on each of the eight days of Hanukkah.
National Christmas Tree Lighting – Dec. 2026 TBD
The National Christmas Tree is DC’s claim to fame during the holidays, and for good reason. The gorgeous conifer lives in President’s Park on the White House Ellipse, where it's surrounded by trees decorated with handmade ornaments from 56 U.S. states and territories and is accompanied by nightly musical performances throughout the holiday season. The display is free to visit.
